Abdinz

Three months ago, I sat down to write a deeply personal reflection about my health, a draft I kept tucked away in my notes. It was a moment of reckoning after a year of immersing myself in New Zealand’s vibrant foodie culture, which led to a significant change in my body. Moving to this beautiful country was meant to be a fresh start – new culture, new people, new memories. And while it’s been all that and more, I found myself facing a challenge I hadn’t anticipated. Over the past year, my weight had crept up from 68kg to 90kg, a shift that left me feeling uncomfortable in my own skin. That draft was my private commitment to change, and now, as winter fades and spring approaches, I’m ready to share my progress: I’ve lost nearly 20kg, and I’m still pushing to shed a few more pounds.

These past three months have been a testament to hard work, discipline, and the power of simple habits. I’ve thrown myself into a routine of diet, exercise, and leveraging the physical demands of my job to transform my body and mind. It’s been a journey of sweat, resilience, and rediscovery, and I’m excited to share how I got here.

Embracing Discipline Through Diet

The first step was rethinking my relationship with food. New Zealand’s North Island, especially in Hamilton and Auckland, is a foodie paradise. From the vibrant Friday and Sunday food markets bursting with fresh produce and global flavors to my sister’s addictive, delicious homemade meals, it’s easy to get swept up in the culinary scene. But to reach my goals, I had to get serious about my diet. I swapped indulgence for structure, focusing on whole foods, lean proteins, and plenty of vegetables. It wasn’t always exciting – sometimes it felt repetitive – but it worked. Planning meals and practicing portion control became my foundation, proving that balance is key to sustainable change.

The Magic of Walking and Hiking

Exercise has been a game-changer, and I’ve fallen in love with walking and hiking. New Zealand’s stunning landscapes make every step a joy, whether I’m strolling through Hamilton parks or tackling a trail in the larger Waikato region. Long walks and hikes have become my go-to for burning calories and clearing my mind. There’s something deeply satisfying about moving through nature – it’s not just physical exercise; it’s a mental reset that leaves me feeling grounded and focused. I’ve learned to never underestimate the power of walking. It’s accessible, effective, and has been a cornerstone of my transformation. My job at a fast-paced warehouse has also played a huge role. The physical demands – lifting, moving, and staying on my feet – turn every shift into a workout, burning 300 to 500 calories a day. With five to six shifts a week, it’s added up, making my work not just a job but a key part of my fitness journey.

Physical Wins, Mental Gains

Dropping nearly 20kg has been a milestone I’m incredibly proud of, but the benefits go beyond the scale. Physically, I feel lighter, stronger, and more energized. My clothes fit better, and I’m starting to recognize myself in the mirror again. Mentally, the impact is even deeper. The discipline of sticking to a routine, celebrating small wins, and pushing through tough days has rebuilt my confidence. Walking, in particular, has become my therapy – a way to process challenges and find calm amidst the storm.

Stepping into Spring

As winter winds down and spring blooms on the horizon, I’m more motivated than ever. I’m still working toward losing a few more pounds, refining my diet, and exploring new trails to keep my hikes exciting. New Zealand’s warmer days and vibrant landscapes feel like the perfect setting for this next chapter. I’m not just chasing a number; I’m chasing the feeling of being comfortable and confident in my own skin.

This journey has shown me that change is never easy, but it’s always possible. There are days when exhaustion hits hard, but every step forward – whether on a trail, in the kitchen, or at work – builds momentum. New Zealand’s foodie culture may have sparked this challenge, but it’s also given me the inspiration to fight for my health. I’m learning to enjoy the markets and my sister’s cooking in moderation, savoring the flavors without losing sight of my goals.

Here’s to spring, to new beginnings, and to celebrating progress with a plate of fresh, colorful food – maybe even one of my sister’s recipes, paired with a side of self-discipline. If you’re on your own journey, know that you’re stronger than you think. Every step counts. Keep going.